„Sie streiten sich um des Kaisers Bart."
They are disputing about trifles.
What does „Sie streiten sich um des Kaisers Bart." mean in German?
„Sie streiten sich um des Kaisers Bart." means "They are disputing about trifles.." Literally: "They argue about the emperor's beard.."
Literal Translation
"They argue about the emperor's beard."
English Equivalent
"They're arguing about nothing."
This English idiom conveys the same meaning as the German expression.
Grammar Notes
Genitive 'des Kaisers'; proverb
When is this idiom used?
This expression is used in everyday spoken German in casual and semi-formal settings.
Related Words
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Related Idioms
„Er fuhr ihn gehörig an."
He talked to him like a Dutch uncle.
„Es war darauf angelegt, mich zu reizen."
It was intended to anger me.
„Sie liegen einander in den Haaren."
They are quarreling.
„Es ist noch nicht aller Tage Abend."
Don't crow too soon. He laughs best who laughs last.
„Der Brief ist mir abhanden gekommen."
I have mislaid (lost) the letter.
„Wer abhebt, gibt nicht."
The person who cuts does not deal.
